From solidarity to social responsibility

24 de June, 2019

We talk about the environment, poverty, healthy eating and, increasingly, solidarity. But what do we do or should we do to help others? Have you ever thought that the community in which your company operates is also your responsibility? If you haven’t yet implemented a Social Responsibility policy, read this text. Find out where to start and how a small gesture can make all the difference.

Nowadays, it is increasingly common for companies to implement Social Responsibility and Corporate Volunteering policies internally. Whether it’s painting walls, serving meals or improving the environment, these actions aim to increase the well-being of the community.

However, are we aware of the importance of these small gestures? Companies have a direct impact on society and Social Responsibility policies are almost a way of saying thank you. The saying goes that “helping doesn’t cost” and, in this case, it really doesn’t! Small gestures like distributing clothes and food to the homeless or planting trees really do make all the difference.

At Edenred, we don’t neglect this theme and, every year, we make it our mission to turn an ordinary day into an Ideal Day.

In Social Responsibility all sides are B – for Good

“Why is social responsibilityimportant from a business point of view?” This is the big question that constantly comes up in connection with this topic. To begin with, we need to be aware that the environment in the community in which the company operates has a direct or indirect impact on the organization.

When society goes through periods of crisis, conflict or inequality, for example, it’s normal for the organization to feel it too. In this social context, consumption tends to decline and so does the financial health of companies. Contributing to social welfare is therefore a mission and a duty. However, it doesn’t end there. Internally, these social initiatives also have a strong impact.

Employees become aware of the needs of the population around them and consequently learn to value their jobs and the quality of life they have access to. Integration with colleagues and team spirit also tend to increase. As well as brand visibility, better allocation of resources and, essentially, more satisfied customers.

At Edenred, Idealday is among the biggest initiatives of the year

Solidarity is the watchword and every year Edenred dedicates a day to helping people in need. This year, Idealday was held worldwide on June 19 in the 46 countries where the Group is present.

In Portugal, Edenred employees dressed up to spend a different afternoon with the Life and Peace Community. The mission was to paint nine rooms, improving the facilities at Quinta da Tomada, and the end result exceeded expectations.

This initiative aims to help improve the quality of life of socially vulnerable people and, once again, mission accomplished! Across the world, the day was also marked by activities such as: updating compost heaps (Edenred France); fighting turtle extinction (Edenred Mexico); eating with orphans and the elderly at PKYMS HOME (Edenred Malaysia) and much more. Do you know where you’re going to start?

A small gesture can change lives. Start helping now and make a difference!